Gem-A CEO James Riley Resigns

James Riley, CEO of Gem-A, has resigned, in the latest chapter in an unusually bitter and public saga has roiled the century-old educational group.

At press time, no replacement has been named to head the organization, also known as the Gemmological Association of Great Britain. A spokesperson did not return a request for comment.

Riley had been suspended since June, following an issue with expenses, according to press accounts.

But the disagreements between Riley and certain members of the organization’s board go deeper, he tells JCK, noting that he hasn’t been invited to a board meeting since last November.

The former diamantaire was popular with many elements of the rank and file, and his suspension sparked a social media campaign to “Save Gem-A and its CEO.” Many expressed unhappiness with how the suspension was handled, noting it was announced when Riley was on vacation.

Riley says he has been overwhelmed with the support he has received and has no future plans.